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Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco to Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo from $117: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
to
Playa del Carmen, Mexico

How to Get from Puerto Vallarta to Playa del Carmen: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$117 by busBest price
2468 kmDistance
5h 17m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Puerto Vallarta to Playa del Carmen with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  17m
Estimated price
$167-536
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
36h 
Estimated price
$117-192
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2468 km
Duration: 5h 17m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
37h  20m
Estimated price
$142-327
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
42h  40m
Estimated price
$176-419
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
28h  10m
Estimated price
$250-1670
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Traveling From Puerto Vallarta to Playa del Carmen

The journey from Puerto Vallarta to Playa del Carmen reveals two distinct landscapes, with Puerto Vallarta offering vibrant coastal charm and Playa del Carmen presenting a lively atmosphere infused with cultural flair.

Best Neighbourhoods in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen offers vibrant neighborhoods each with its own character.

Centro
• Bustling with shops and restaurants.
• Close to the beach and ferry terminal.
Playacar
• Known for its luxurious resorts and golf courses.
• Quiet streets lined with palm trees.
Aldea Zama
• Features eco-friendly living spaces and local art.
• A short bike ride to the beach.

Best Times To Visit Playa del Carmen's Attractions

Visit Playa del Carmen's attractions at optimal times for a memorable experience.

Xcaret Park
Early morning visits offer fewer crowds and cooler weather.
Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida)
Weekdays are less busy, allowing for a relaxed stroll.
Cenote Chaak Tun
Visit in the afternoon for stunning sunlight in the water.

Playa del Carmen Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Playa del Carmen enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it an inviting destination for sun seekers. The best times to visit are between December and April, when you'll find pleasant weather and lower humidity, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Playa del Carmen

Try the cochinita pibil at El Fogón, a local favorite that showcases the Yucatán’s rich flavor profile with slow-cooked pork marinated in citrus and achiote. This culinary experience contrasts with Puerto Vallarta’s seafood-centric cuisine, offering a vibrant atmosphere and unique local ingredients that truly represent the flavors of the region.

Puerto Vallarta - Playa del Carmen operators

Explore transport companies operating between Puerto Vallarta and Playa del Carmen, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
vivaaerobus.com

Plane from Puerto Vallarta (PVR) to Cancun (CUN)

Average Duration
5h 17m
Estimated price
$1676-1677

Plane from Puerto Vallarta (PVR) to Cancun (CUN)

Average Duration
5h 12m
Estimated price
$1676-1677

Plane from Puerto Vallarta (PVR) to Cancun (CUN)

Average Duration
5h 45m
Estimated price
$1676-1677
Website
volaris.com

Plane from Puerto Vallarta (PVR) to Cancun (CUN)

Average Duration
5h 47m
Estimated price
$1678-1679

Plane from Puerto Vallarta (PVR) to Cancun (CUN)

Average Duration
5h 47m
Estimated price
$1678-1679
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+52 333 111 8780
Website
vallartaplus.com

Bus from Puerto Vallarta to Terminal Tlaquepaque

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
5360-5361
Contact phone
+52 55 2886 8728
Website
autotravel.mx

Bus from Central ACN to Tuxtla Gutiérrez

Average Duration
14h
Estimated price
5364-5365

Bus from Terminal Central de Autobuses del Norte to Puebla Terminal CAPU

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
5366-5367
Contact phone
+52 995596 0179
Website
facebook.com

Bus from Tuxtla Gutiérrez to Playa del Carmen

Average Duration
15h
Estimated price
5368-5369
Contact phone
+52 555 784 4652
Website
ado.com.mx

Bus from Orizaba to Playa del Carmen Alterna

Average Duration
20h 50m
Estimated price
5365-1673

Bus from Terminal Central de Autobuses del Norte to Puebla Terminal CAPU

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
1175-1174

Puerto Vallarta to Playa del Carmen: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Puerto Vallarta and Playa del Carmen offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a road trip like no other as you journey 1534 miles from Puerto Vallarta to Playa del Carmen, immersing yourself in the beautiful landscapes and vibrant culture along the way. 💸 Experience the freedom of the open road with prices ranging from $250 to $370 for the trip from Puerto Vallarta to Playa del Carmen by car, offering flexibility for all types of travelers. ⏰ Set aside approximately 28 hours and 10 minutes for this scenic drive, where every mile brings you closer to the sun-soaked beaches and lively atmosphere of Playa del Carmen.
Average price
$250 - $370
🛫 Flying from Puerto Vallarta to Playa del Carmen involves taking a connecting flight with a duration of 4 hours and 35 minutes. ✈️ Volaris and Viva Aerobus are the airlines that operate this route, offering convenient options for travelers. 🌴 Once you arrive at Cancun Airport, it will take approximately 5 hours and 17 minutes to reach Playa del Carmen by plane. 🌞 This coastal town is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. 💸 The prices for flights between Playa del Carmen and Puerto Vallarta can range from $167 to $536, depending on various factors such as the time of booking and availability. 🏖️ Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Playa del Carmen offers a diverse range of activities for all types of travelers.
Departure Point
Puerto Vallarta Airport
Arrival Point
Cancun Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 35m and has one stopover
🌴 The scenic route will take approximately 36 hours to reach Playa del Carmen from Puerto Vallarta. Enjoy the cross-country adventure as you make your way through Mexico on the Turismo y Excursiones Alianza bus service. 💰 Ticket prices for the Puerto Vallarta to Playa del Carmen bus range from $117 to $192.
Departure Point
Puerto Vallarta station
Arrival Point
Playa del Carmen station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Puerto Vallarta to Playa del Carmen.

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The distance between Puerto Vallarta and Playa del Carmen is approximately 1180 miles. The typical travel time between the two cities varies depending on the mode of transportation. If flying and taking a bus, it takes around 7 hours and 2 minutes to reach Playa del Carmen from Puerto Vallarta. Alternatively, driving by car takes around 28 hours and 3 minutes, while traveling by bus takes approximately 36 hours and 10 minutes from Puerto Vallarta to Playa del Carmen.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Puerto Vallarta to Playa del Carmen is by bus, with prices ranging from $100 to $180. However, the journey takes approximately 36 hours and 10 minutes. If time efficiency is a priority, the quickest way is to take a combination of a flight and a bus, which takes around 7 hours and 2 minutes and costs between $85 and $380. Overall, the most suitable option depends on individual preferences and priorities.
The prices of a bus ticket between Playa del Carmen and Puerto Vallarta can range from $108 to $171. It is important to note that the prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of year, the bus company, and the class of service. It is recommended to book in advance and compare prices from different bus companies to find the best deal for your travel needs.
To travel from Puerto Vallarta to Playa del Carmen without using public transportation, you can opt to drive the entire distance. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 1528 miles, and it takes around 28 hours to drive from Puerto Vallarta to Playa del Carmen. The cost of getting from Puerto Vallarta to Playa del Carmen by car varies between $250 to $370, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
To travel from Puerto Vallarta to Playa del Carmen without a car, your best option is by bus. The journey takes approximately 36 hours and 10 minutes and the ticket prices range from $100 to $180. You can catch a bus from Puerto Vallarta to Playa del Carmen at various bus stations in Puerto Vallarta and it will take you directly to Playa del Carmen without the need for any transfers. The bus ride is a convenient and affordable way to travel between the two destinations without the need for a car.
There is no direct bus link between Puerto Vallarta and Playa del Carmen. However, you can travel between the two cities by taking a series of bus transfers. The journey involves departing from Puerto Vallarta and transferring in Guadalajara and Tuxtla Gutiérrez before reaching Playa del Carmen. The total travel time for this route is approximately 36 hours and 10 minutes.
The flight duration between Puerto Vallarta and Playa del Carmen typically takes around 4 hours and 35 minutes, with one stopover. There is no direct flight available between the two destinations. The cost of the flight can vary depending on various factors such as the airline, time of booking, and season, but generally, prices can range from $150 to $300 or more for a round-trip ticket. It is advisable to check with airlines and travel websites for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Playa del Carmen. With over 1442 hotels to choose from, visitors can find a range of options to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices start at $105 per night, ensuring there is something available for every traveler. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, tourists have a wide selection of places to stay and enjoy their time in Playa del Carmen.

Trips from Puerto Vallarta

Trips to Playa del Carmen